Colorado’s Record-Breaking Insurance Move for Sanders and Hunter: A Game-Changer in College Football
In a bold and unprecedented move, the University of Colorado has secured what it claims to be record insurance coverage for its star players, quarterback Shedeur Sanders and Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. This strategic decision comes as both players have chosen to complete their college careers by participating in the Alamo Bowl, rather than sitting out to prepare for the NFL draft.
While the exact figures of the insurance coverage remain undisclosed due to privacy laws, Colorado’s head coach Deion Sanders and athletic director Rick George have confidently stated that it is the largest in college football history. “We happen to have two players that are probably going to be the first two picks of the NFL draft,” Sanders remarked on Monday. “We all know who those two are and they have received, I think, the highest number of coverage that has ever been covered in college football. It far exceeds anyone that has ever played this game of college football.”
Insurance policies for athletes are not uncommon in college programs, typically serving as a safeguard against potential injuries. However, Colorado has taken a significant step further by increasing disability coverage for its entire roster specifically for the Alamo Bowl. This move was spearheaded by Coach Sanders, who ensured that his son, Shedeur, and the versatile Travis Hunter received larger policies, given their expected top 10 selections in the upcoming NFL draft.
Rick George elaborated on the initiative, saying, “It was his idea we should get disability insurance for our athletes for this game to ensure that they played and if there was some kind of injury, that they would be well taken care of. So, we worked together on that. We’re excited about it. We think it’s great that all our players are playing in the game. That’s what all bowl games should be like.”
As the No. 20 Buffaloes (9-3, No. 23 CFP) gear up to face the 17th-ranked BYU Cougars (10-2, No. 17 CFP) in the Alamo Bowl on Saturday, they stand out in a season where many teams are grappling with the loss of starters opting out of bowl games to enter the transfer portal or NFL draft. Remarkably, the Buffaloes have retained every player on their two-deep roster.
Colorado linebackers coach Andre’ Hart reflected on the evolution of player support, saying, “It’s more than what I got [when I played at Kansas State]. They gave us a helmet and said, ‘Pop this on your leg and get out there and play.’ For them to get that [increased insurance coverage], I just think it’s beneficial. To talk about where the game is, where it’s going and how leadership is taking care of the players, I thought that’s excellent.”
Shedeur Sanders has had an impressive season, completing 337 of 454 passes for 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns. Many scouting services have rated Sanders as the top quarterback in this year’s draft. Meanwhile, Travis Hunter has made history as a two-way standout, earning the Heisman Trophy. His stats are nothing short of remarkable, with 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns as a wide receiver, and as a cornerback, he has four interceptions, broke up 11 passes, and limited the opposition to 22 receptions in 688 defensive snaps.
Colorado running back Micah Welch expressed his appreciation for the university’s efforts, saying, “They’ve taken care of us, everybody. It really means a lot to have every teammate up here. That’s a big thing. What I like about Coach Prime, they’re taking care of us.”
In a landscape where college football is rapidly evolving, Colorado’s decision to prioritize player welfare through record-breaking insurance coverage sets a new standard. It not only ensures the participation of key players in bowl games but also highlights a growing trend of leadership taking proactive steps to protect and support their athletes.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
